Are you interested in becoming an auto body technician but worried about how much money you'll make? It's an understandable concern, as we all want to earn a fair wage for the work we do. In this blog post, we'll explore the topic of how much do auto body technicians make an hour and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your career path.
For many people, salary is a major pain point when considering a career. You want to know that your hard work will be rewarded with a fair and livable wage. Auto body technicians are no exception. It's important to know what you can expect to earn so that you can make a practical decision about whether or not this is the right career for you.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for auto body technicians and painters was $22.76 in May 2020. This means that half of all technicians earned less than this amount, while the other half earned more. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $13.85 per hour, while the highest 10% earned more than $36.11 per hour.
In summary, the median hourly wage for auto body technicians is just over $22 per hour. However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, including experience, location, and employer.
What Affects How Much Auto Body Technicians Make per Hour?
Several factors can affect an auto body technician's hourly wage. One of the most significant is experience. Technicians who are just starting out in their careers may earn less than those who have been working in the industry for several years. Additionally, location can play a role in how much technicians earn. Those who work in areas with a high cost of living may earn more than those in less expensive areas.
The type of employer can also impact earnings. Technicians who work for large auto body shops may earn more than those who work for smaller, independent businesses. Finally, the specific skills and certifications a technician holds can also impact their earning potential. Those who have specialized training in areas like welding or electrical systems may be able to command a higher salary than those without these skills.
Experience Matters
When I started my career as an auto body technician, I was making around $15 per hour. However, as I gained experience and became more skilled at my job, my hourly wage increased significantly. After five years in the industry, I was earning over $25 per hour. So, while starting salaries may not be as high as you would like, it's important to remember that your earning potential will increase as you gain experience.
Specialized Skills = Higher Earnings
One way to increase your earning potential as an auto body technician is to acquire specialized skills and certifications. For example, if you become certified in welding or electrical systems, you may be able to earn more than technicians without these certifications. Additionally, those who are skilled at working on high-end luxury vehicles may be able to command a higher salary than those who work on more basic models.
FAQs About How Much Auto Body Technicians Make per Hour
Q: How much do entry-level auto body technicians make per hour?
A: Entry-level technicians can expect to make between $13 and $18 per hour, depending on their location and employer.
Q: Can auto body technicians earn overtime pay?
A: Yes, many technicians are eligible for overtime pay when they work more than 40 hours per week. This can significantly increase their hourly earnings.
Q: Do auto body technicians receive benefits?
A: Many auto body shops offer benefits packages to their employees, which may include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Q: Is it possible for auto body technicians to earn a six-figure salary?
A: While it's not common, some highly skilled and experienced technicians may be able to earn six-figure salaries. However, this is typically reserved for those who have specialized skills and work on high-end luxury vehicles.
Conclusion of How Much Auto Body Technicians Make per Hour
Overall, auto body technicians can expect to earn a fair and livable wage for their work. While starting salaries may be lower than you would like, your earning potential will increase as you gain experience and acquire specialized skills. If you're passionate about cars and have a talent for working with your hands, a career as an auto body technician may be a great choice for you.
